July-Sept 2021 | Page 3

your PC . Newer versions encrypt the files on your PC so you can ’ t access them , and then simply demand money to restore your files . How does ransomware infect a computer ? Ransomware can get on your PC from nearly any source that any other malware ( including viruses ) can come from . This includes : Visiting unsafe , suspicious , or fake websites . Opening emails and email attachments from people you don ’ t know , or that you weren ’ t expecting . Clicking on malicious or bad links in emails , Facebook , Twitter , and other social media posts , instant messenger chats , like Skype . It can be very difficult to restore your PC after a ransomware attack – especially if it ’ s infected by encryption ransomware . That ’ s why the best solution to ransomware is to be safe on the Internet and with emails and online chat : Don ’ t click on a link on a webpage , in an email , or in a chat message unless you absolutely trust the page or sender . If you ’ re ever
unsure – don ’ t click it ! Often fake emails and webpages have bad spelling , or just look unusual . Look out for strange spellings of company names ( like “ PayePal ” instead of “ PayPal ”) or unusual spaces , symbols , or punctuation ( like “ iTunesCustomer Service ” instead of “ iTunes Customer Service ”).
Back up your files
The best was to recover from a ransomware infection and not pay a ransom is to recover your files from backups . However , if your backup can be accessed from the infected system , ransomware might delete or encrypt your backup files . Backups should be stored on external drives that are not always connected to your computer or to a reputable cloud based service . Additionally , make sure you have up-to-date anti-virus software . Also make sure your operating system , applications and devices are enabled to automatically install updates .
Zip Tie your Emergency Release Shut
Simply running a Zip Tie through the holes in your emergency release switch will make it almost impossible for a thief to use the jimmy method .
Keep in mind that the zip tie should only be used when you are going on vacation . I probably would not keep it on there when actually in the home , because during an emergency situation where you need to quickly evacuate having it on the emergency release could be dangerous .
Install a Vacation Lock
A Heavy Duty Vacation Garage Door Deadlock is a great solution for securing any garage door . They are easy to install , can be found for under $ 10 , and make it that much harder on the bad guy to gain entry through your garage door . The Lever slides right through the garage door track , making it almost impossible for the door to be raised once the lock is engaged .
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